Dunmore East RNLI responds to motorboat adrift with 2 persons on board

Sunday 6 July 2025

Dunmore East RNLI launched on Saturday afternoon, 5 July, to assist a 37-foot motor cruiser that had lost engine power near Duncannon.

Photo Credit: RNLI/Dunmore East

Pagers sounded at 16.41 following a request from the Irish Coast Guard. The relief vessel, Shannon-class all-weather lifeboat, Joanna and Henry Williams (RNLB 13-27) launched with six volunteer crew on board and made its way to the scene.

The vessel, a 37-foot steel motor cruiser with two people on board, had broken down in the channel off Duncannon and was unable to move. Weather conditions were fair, with good visibility and calm seas.

With the boat drifting in the channel and unable to steer, it was considered a hazard to other vessels. With two people on board and no engine power, the lifeboat crew decided that towing the boat to safety was the best option.

A towline was set up, and the boat was brought back to Dunmore East. It was secured safely alongside the pontoon. Both people on board were safe and well.

The lifeboat returned to station and was made ready for service.

Karen Harris, Launch Authority with Dunmore East RNLI said: ‘Today’s shout was a good reminder of the importance of being able to stay in touch by VHF radio or phone when you go out on the water. You never know when something can go wrong and you may need to call for help. If you get into difficulty or see someone in difficulty in the water, please dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’